This fall, after camping at least once June through October, I decided that a fun goal might be to camp at least once each month for the rest of my life - ? ? - time will tell...

I understood that this would only be possible if I accepted backyard “camps” as worthy on occasion. November was a real hunting camp, December was a backyard camp (conditions mid-20’s with moderate snow). I had hoped January would be an extended winter camp in central WI, but as the month drew to a close available time simply was not in the cards. So another backyard camp.

Conditions: from 18 deg. F to -4 deg. F with winds mild to breezy and cloudy / snow to clear.

It was fun to test gear without risk and staying comfortable, relatively speaking, while fitting it into my schedule. After sleeping out, a walk, and breakfast spread over three days – here are little things I learned (besides the stuff which worked well):

Thanks. That’s the point. I was almost lazy and said the heck with it. But it’s sort of a fun goal (years from now what WILL the staff of Wrinkle Haven say when I strap my tent and sleeping bag to my walker and head for the patio…) and there are a myriad of ways to become proficient at something. That proficiency means you’ll have more fun and you might even avoid problems which could be more serious.

I know it’s not the same, but it’s still worthwhile.

Thought it worth a mention with the cold setting in across the US. Good opportunity for out-of-the ordinary conditions. Much can be learned – it’s worth the effort - and it can be fun if you let it be fun.

BTW I am thrilled with my Eureka Kaycee mummy bag - didn't think I could sleep in a mummy bag - but I've slept well in it every time.

So I also build confidence in my gear.

Bill

"There are times when the most complicated actions are suddenly summed up, distilled, and strike you with illuminating clarity" - Maurice Herzog